Think stroke, think FAST
Spot a Stroke campaign launches to help tackle the UK’s third biggest killer.
The quicker a stroke is spotted and treated by specialists, the better the chance of survival and recovery. That’s the aim of Spot a Stroke, a new campaign across Bedfordshire, showing people that a simple test called FAST – Face Arm Speech Test – can help them spot the signs of a stroke, call 999 and maybe save a life.
Stroke consultant at Bedford Hospital, Dr Abdul Elmarimi, said: “Increased awareness of stroke and the symptoms of stroke is vital if we are to reduce the number of deaths and lessen the devastating effects that stroke can produce.
“More than 4,000 people suffer a stroke every year in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Luton alone. It is the most common cause of adult disability in the UK and the third most common cause of death, yet local research shows many people don’t know the symptoms of a stroke, or how serious a stroke can be.
“We want people to consider a stroke as a ‘brain attack’ in exactly the same way they would a heart attack. Early treatment can make a very significant difference in reducing deaths and minimising disability from stroke. In some cases, early intervention means people can make a near full recovery - but only if the signs are spotted early and the patient receives emergency care as quickly as possible. This is why we’re supporting the Stroke Association’s FAST campaign and promoting the use of the FAST symptom spotter.”
FAST – Face Arm Speech Test - is used by paramedics to diagnose a stroke before someone is admitted to hospital so they can then be referred to a specialist stroke unit as quickly as possible.
FAST requires an assessment of three specific symptoms of stroke:
- Facial weakness - can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
- Arm weakness - can the person raise both arms?
- Speech problems - can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
- Time to call 999
Dr Abdul Elmarimi added: “If someone fails any one of these tests, you must call 999. Swift action can prevent further damage to the brain and help someone make a full recovery. On the other hand, delay can result in death or major long-term disabilities, such as paralysis, severe memory loss and communication problems. Everyone should remember to think FAST!”
Dr Muriel Scott, Bedfordshire’s Director of Public Health, said:
“Reducing the number of deaths from stroke is a key priority for the NHS. It is vital that everyone knows how to recognise the symptoms of a stroke so they get the right treatment quickly. If you suspect a stroke, don’t delay, call 999.”